'Run for Children'
kicks off Sunday

Published 1:00 am, Friday, December 3, 2004

Toys to be given as Christmas gifts will be the goal of the first annual Christmas Run for Children three-mile road race to be held Sunday at 10 a.m. in New Milford.

Unwrapped toys will be collected as participants' registration fee. Toys will then be directed to the Housatonic branch of the
United Way
in New Milford and to
New Milford Social Services
for distribution among area children.

"I have always wanted to bring an event like this to New Milford," said race director
Wallie Jahn
, owner of Road Track Sports. "I'm sure this will grow over the years and eventually make a significant contribution to many children in this area."

Toys may be dropped off today(Friday) or tomorrow (Saturday) at Road Track Sports on Main Street.

For runners choosing not to bring a toy, race-day cost will be $20.

A limited number of long-sleeved T-shirts will be sold on race day for $15.

Signup will start at 8 a.m. at Underdog's Cafe on Railroad Street, across from the Railroad Station.

The field will follow a course starting on Railroad Street, along Wellsville Avenue, left on Wells Road, left on Aspetuck Road, left on Housatonic Avenue and finally heading along Patriot Drive to the Chapin Plaza parking lot near the Railroad Station.

Trophies will be presented for youth runners in age groups 10 and under and 11-13..

Custom coffee mugs will be given to those age 70 and up.

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Volunteers are still needed, according to Mr. Jahn, who also coordinates the New Balance Moonlight Run 5K each May and the Polar Bear Run each February at Lake Waramaug.

"We are still looking for sponsors and volunteers to help us," he said. "Anyone willing to contribute may call Road Track Sports."